The Route to Success

Founder Willy Robertson started the company seven years ago, using just one second-hand truck and his own expertise to win small contracts around Christchurch. Since then, the 30-year-old entrepreneur has added several more businesses under the TRU Group and grown Traffic R US to a team of 30 and a fleet that includes five FUSO Canters.

The company’s latest FUSO is a medium wheelbase Canter 918 – “large enough for us to convert into a traffic mounted attenuator (TMA), but small enough for street jobs where access can be difficult,” says TRU Group business manager Richard Moore.

TMAs are designed to absorb kinetic energy and reduce harm in the event of collision. To do the job, they need to tip the scales at six tonnes unloaded. With a tare weight of just under 2.5 tonnes and GVM of just over 8.5 tonnes, the Canter 918 was fitted with a specially built deck to bulk up.

That leaves adequate payload for cones and traffic signs for when the truck is required on other jobs, with plenty of get up and go from the 129kW / 430Nm engine.   

“Flexibility is key for us,” says Richard. “We don’t like to turn jobs down and all of our staff get behind the wheel if necessary, including me.”

The easy-to-operate DUONIC transmission is a big plus for the Traffic R Us team.    

“It’s straightforward, smooth and takes the stress out of driving,” says Richard. “We’re moving away from manual transmissions across our fleet. Coning out is particularly hard on clutches and, because the DUONIC system reduces wear and tear, we’re reducing maintenance costs.”

While Canter ticks the box for flexibility and reliability, Traffic R Us works hard to ensure it does the same for its customers.

“A lot of our work is booked last minute and we pride ourselves on our ability to scope and prepare detailed plans with speed and precision,” says Richard. “It’s something our clients value and is one of the reasons they keep coming back.

“We do everything from designing traffic management plans to event management, but the bulk of our work comes from the likes of Downer and Fulton Hogan.”

As the company plots its route towards further growth and success, its FUSO Canter fleet will remain integral to delivering the adaptable, dependable and economical service it has built its reputation on.

CANTER 918 MWB

• Tare weight (cab and chassis) – 2,445 kg
• Power / Torque – 129kW / 430Nm
• Transmission - 6 speed DUONIC
• Service intervals – 30,000 km